The Psychology of Violent Conflict in Failing States: A Review of the Scientific Literature (Psychologie des Conflits Violents au sein d'etats en Deroute: Analyse de Publications Scientifiques)
Abstract
The Adversarial Intent Section of Defence Research and Development Canada - Toronto (DRDC Toronto) has been tasked with gaining a better understanding of the root causes of violent conflict perpetrated by armed non-state actors (ANSAs) in fragile and failing states. For this, DRDC Toronto has contracted two leading social psychologists in the field of intergroup relations who, together with their teams, have conducted an integrative review of the literature. The present report presents the results of this literature review, which is organized around six major social psychological theories that outline factors precipitating the development of conflict, factors maintaining conflict, and factors leading to stability. Recommendations intended to guide further research are provided, emphasizing perceptions of relative deprivation, group-based emotions, group identity, and collective narratives.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA543184
Entities
People
- Donald M. Taylor
- Michael J. Wohl
- Michael King
- Persia Etemadi
Organizations
- Defence Research and Development Canada